A balk is an illegal motion or action by the pitcher when there are runners on base, intended (or appearing) to deceive those runners. When a balk is called:
All runners advance one base.
The pitch is nullified (doesn’t count), unless it's a pitch and the batter reaches first base safely (then the play stands).
Starting the pitching motion and not finishing it.
Once the pitcher begins his motion toward home plate, he must deliver the pitch.
Failing to come to a complete stop in the set position.
In the set (or "stretch") position, the pitcher must pause fully before pitching.
Throwing to a base without stepping toward it.
When trying to pick off a runner, the pitcher must step directly toward the base.
Throwing or faking a throw to an unoccupied base.
Unless there's a play being made, you can’t fake a throw to a base with no runner.
Faking a pitch without releasing the ball.
If a pitcher acts like they’re pitching but doesn’t throw, it's a balk.
Dropping the ball while on the rubber.
Even accidentally dropping the ball while standing on the pitching rubber counts as a balk.
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